Music as a Lifelong Journey
Music has been at the heart of my life for as long as I can remember. From my very first piano lessons, I discovered that music has the power to inspire, connect and bring joy, not only to those who make it, but to everyone around them.
Teaching & Mentoring
“For over twenty years, I’ve shared in the musical journeys of countless students.”
Whether someone is beginning an instrument for the first time, returning after a break or simply seeking a creative outlet, every lesson is an opportunity to explore, grow and enjoy music together. My teaching is guided by the belief that music should be imaginative, fulfilling and personal, not solely about exams or performance.
Alongside teaching, I mentor other instrumental and singing teachers, supporting them to reflect on their practice and find ways to nurture creativity and confidence in their own students. My approach to mentoring is rooted in the same values that guide my teaching: collaboration, encouragement and a focus on each individual’s journey.
“I really appreciate your hard work and expert teaching. I have enjoyed my lessons, performance experience and meeting with others who share a passion for music.”
~ Caroline (adult student: singing, flute and piano)
“Thank you for all you have done for her. Her confidence has grown and she would never have played in public without your help and guidance.”
~ Annie (parent of a teenage flute student)
Composing & Arranging
Composing and arranging form another thread of my work. I have over 100 published works, many of which have been professionally recorded and released, and I regularly undertake commissions.
Several of my compositions have been included in the London Festival of Contemporary Church Music and my music is performed worldwide.
Writing & Research
“Research continues to inform my work & thinking around how music can support creativity, autonomy & reflective practice.”
Writing and sharing ideas about music is something I love.
I write on The Notebook, a blog where I share reflections, reviews and resources for musicians and teachers. I also contribute guest posts to other blogs and publications. My published articles have appeared in Music Teacher, Piano Professional, Cathedral Music, PAN and the British Journal of Music Education.
My PhD (Royal College of Music, 2020) explored autonomy and control in private music teaching, and I continue to look at ways that research can be shared meaningfully with those working at grassroots levels.
I’ve also acted as a peer reviewer for journals including the British Journal of Music Education. I was a Graduate Teaching Assistant at the Royal College of Music and am an Associate Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (AFHEA).
Community & Musical Life
Beyond teaching, mentoring, composing and arranging, writing and research, I remain active in the musical community.
I am Trustee and Secretary of the Lichfield Festival of Music, and I play and accompany locally as an organist and pianist. Everything I do is tied together by a single idea: music is a journey we share and the best experiences come from creativity, freedom and joy.
Beyond Music
Outside of music, I enjoy cooking, baking, reading, photography, being outdoors and long walks in the countryside. I have had a lifelong interest in history and genealogy, an area of work which is continuing to grow over at David Barton Research. I also write and create content around slow, simple and seasonal living over at A Life More Creative and Rediscover · Reconnect · Re-Emerge.
Professional Background
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Expert Panel Member, The Art of Piano Education Awards, 2024
Piano Syllabus Consultant, LCM, 2021
Research Consultant for The Music Commission, ABRSM, 2018-19
Graduate Teaching Assistant, Royal College of Music, 2016-18
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PhD in Music Education, Royal College of Music, 2020
MEd, The Open University, 2010
BA(Hons) Open Degree, The Open University, 2008
DipLCM in Piano Performance, 2015
LLCM in Composition, 2010
DipABRSM in Piano Teaching, 2009
DipRSCM in Sacred Music Studies, 2006
CertGSMD(T) in Flute Teaching, 2004
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Being an Effective Teacher, ABRSM, 2010
Child Protection Awareness in Music, 2015
Music Education Expo, 2016-2019
ABRSM Teacher Conference, 2014-18
Through the Keyhole: An inside Look at ABRSM Graded Exams, 2009
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Secretary and Trustee, Lichfield Festival of Music, 2016-
Council Member and Trustee, British Flute Society, 2019-21
Peer Reviewer, British Journal of Music Education, 2021-
Organist, Lichfield Methodist Church, 2022-
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AFHEA Associate Fellow, Higher Education Academy, 2018-
ISM Registered Private Teacher Status, 2015-
Enhanced DBS Check, 2015-
PRS and MCPS Member, 2011
FISM, Fellow, Independent Society of Musicians, 2007-
Member, The Curious Piano Teachers, 2015-